Club 51 Sports Bar scores big with fans during Kitchener Rangers home opener
Kitchener, ON – Hundreds of hockey fans got their first game-day experience at Club 51 Sports Bar during the Kitchener Rangers' home opener last Friday, marking a strong start for the new sports bar and gathering space at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium (The Aud).
The successful opening followed a sneak peek celebration held earlier in the week, where members of the media, City council, staff, project partners and construction teams gathered for a ribbon cutting and first look at the transformed space. The event recognized the work that went into converting the former Subscribers Lounge into a modern restaurant and community gathering place inside The Aud.
"For 75 years, The Aud has been one of Kitchener's most beloved gathering places," said Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “In May 2025, our Council approved $2M to bring in a vibrant dining space for concert goers, sports fans and residents. I'm proud of the innovative projects we’ve taken on, like Club 51, that show how thoughtful investments can honour a facility’s history while creating new experiences that meet the needs of today's residents and visitors.”
Hometown hospitality
Designed to serve guests year-round, Club 51 offers elevated pub fare, local craft beverages and a strong focus on supporting local suppliers and producers throughout Waterloo Region. In addition to game-day offerings, Club 51 will welcome fans in for Rangers’ away game streaming and other event opportunities.
Matt and Jackie Rolleman, owners and operators of Club 51 Sports Bar, said the vision was to create a welcoming destination that reflects the energy and history of The Aud while delivering a premium hospitality experience.
"Seeing the restaurant come to life during the Rangers' home opener was incredibly rewarding," said Jackie Rolleman, co-owner of Club 51. "We were proud to welcome so many people from across the community. Fans arrived early, families stayed for dinner and people took the time to enjoy the space. The turnout showed us just how much people value having another place to gather at The Aud."
For reservations, menus and operating hours, visit Club 51 Sports Bar's website. Find tickets for games, events and concerts at The Aud on KitchenerLIVE.ca.
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About The Aud
Since opening in 1951, The Aud has served as one of Kitchener's premier entertainment and community venues, hosting sporting events, concerts, exhibitions, family programming and community celebrations. In 2026, The Aud celebrates its 75th anniversary.
About Club 51 Sports Bar
Owned and operated by The Rolleman Group, Club 51 Sports Bar is a modern take on the classic sports bar, proudly located inside the historic Kitchener Memorial Auditorium. Named after the year The Aud opened in 1951, Club 51 blends the rich history of this iconic venue with elevated pub fare, local craft beer, Ontario-made beverages, and warm hospitality.
Club 51 Sports Bar proudly continues the tradition of bringing community and sport together in one place.
Land acknowledgement
The City of Kitchener is situated on the traditional territory of the Chonnonton, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee Peoples. We recognize our responsibility to act as stewards for the land and honour the original caretakers who came before us. Our community is enriched by the enduring knowledge and deep-rooted traditions of the diverse First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples who live in Kitchener today.